Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls are a fun and tasty twist on the classic holiday side dish. They combine savory stuffing with tender turkey and tangy cranberries, all rolled into easy-to-eat little bites that are perfect for snacking or sharing. The mix of flavors and textures—from soft bread to juicy cranberries—makes these balls stand out at any meal.
I love making these because they’re so simple to prepare, and they bring a little surprise with every bite thanks to the bursts of cranberry. They’re a great way to use up leftover turkey and stuffing, and I find that everyone loves how the cranberries add a nice pop of sweetness without overpowering the dish. Plus, they’re perfect for getting everyone around the table chatting and munching before the main course.
My favorite way to serve cranberry turkey stuffing balls is on a platter with a bit of cranberry sauce on the side for dipping. They also work great as party appetizers or even in lunchboxes the next day. If you want to switch things up, try adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme—they give the balls a fresh, bright flavor that really lifts the whole dish.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked turkey: Using leftover turkey works great here and adds great flavor. If you want, ground chicken or turkey breast are good alternatives for a fresher taste.
Stuffing mix: Cornbread or herb stuffing adds nice texture. If gluten-free, try gluten-free bread crumbs or stuffing. Homemade stuffing is perfect if you want a more personalized flavor.
Dried cranberries: They add a sweet tartness that brightens the balls. You can swap in dried cherries or raisins if cranberries aren’t available.
Celery and onion: These veggies bring crunch and savory depth. Finely chopping them helps with even cooking and blending of flavors.
Broth: Using turkey or chicken broth moistens the mixture. If you want a vegetarian version, vegetable broth works nicely, just skip the turkey.
How Do You Make Stuffing Balls Hold Their Shape Without Falling Apart?
Getting the right texture is key so your balls stay together when cooking. Here’s how:
- Mix ingredients well so every bite has moisture and flavor.
- Add broth gradually—it should be enough to bind but not soggy.
- Use eggs as a natural binder; make sure they’re evenly mixed.
- Roll the balls firmly but not too tight to avoid dense results.
- Chilling balls briefly before cooking helps them hold together better.
- Cook over medium heat to brown gently without breaking.
Following these tips will give you crispy outside and tender, well-formed cranberry turkey stuffing balls every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – I prefer this for combining all the ingredients easily and thoroughly.
- Cooking spoon or spatula – helps mix everything without any fuss.
- Baking sheet or skillet – choose a baking sheet for baking or skillet for frying, depending on your preference.
- Measuring cups and spoons – keep everything precise for the best texture and taste.
- Cookie scoop or spoon – makes portioning the mixture into evenly-sized balls simple.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap dried cranberries for dried cherries or raisins for a different sweet-tart flavor.
- Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and nuttiness.
- Mix in shredded cheese like Parmesan or Swiss for a cheesy twist.
- Include herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or sage to boost the savory notes.
Equipment and Variations for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls
Equipment You’ll Need:
- Large mixing bowl – to combine all your ingredients easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts.
- Knife and cutting board – to finely chop turkey, celery, onion, and parsley.
- Mixing spoon or spatula – to stir everything together.
- Hand or cookie scoop – makes forming uniform balls simple.
- Skillet or frying pan – for cooking the balls on the stove.
- Baking sheet – if you choose to bake rather than fry.
- Optional: parchment paper or nonstick spray – to prevent sticking while baking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins:
- Cheese twist: Mix in ½ cup shredded cheddar, parmesan, or mozzarella for a creamy, cheesy surprise inside.
- Nutty crunch: Add ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for extra texture and flavor.
- Herb upgrade: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage can brighten the taste; add about 1 tablespoon of any herb you like.
- Spicy kick: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for mild heat.
- Veggie boost: Try adding finely chopped mushrooms or bell peppers to the mix for added veggies and moisture.
- Sweet swap: Substitute dried cranberries with dried cherries, blueberries, or raisins to change the fruity note.
Can I Use Frozen Turkey in This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure the turkey is fully thawed and drained of any excess moisture before mixing it in. This helps keep the stuffing balls from becoming soggy.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely. You can shape the balls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just cover them tightly to prevent drying out.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stuffing balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or skillet to keep them crispy.
Can I Bake Instead of Frying?
Yes, baking is a great option for a lighter version. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes on a greased sheet, turning halfway until golden brown.